Since my last post, the world is trying to put Covid-19 behind us. Although there is still a very real threat, business must resume for continued prosperity for all. This past 2 years has taught us valuable lessons on keeping safe while going forward.
The spring/summer/fall of 2022 saw only limited rainfall across the RM. Amounts varied from tenths of an inch to multiple inches at any one time. Generally, crop and forage production were good. An open fall allowed for the crop to be brought in with high quality as we go into an early winter again.
The dry summer created heightened challenges for the operators this year, trying to keep the washboards on the roads to a minimum. With few rains, the gravel acts like marbles and it’s hard to stop. Different strategies are being tried to minimize the problem.
Our website has been utilized by many of you. Online payments and e-transfers are welcomed and ratepayers find it very convenient. We welcome any suggestions you have on additional content we can provide.
If you have had communication with the office, you may have spoken with Aspen J. She is in training through the U of R as well as gaining the required on-site knowledge by working alongside Betty, an RM Administrator with 40 years of experience, to become an administrator herself. There is much to learn, but she’s enjoying it and looking forward to taking over when Betty retires.
Council had a request approved by the province to change the number of Divisions from 8 to back to 6, to coordinate with most of the other RM’s in Saskatchewan.
2022 was an election year for us, but one was not required. With the re-numbering of divisions, one council position was removed. Five other divisions saw returning councilors, three with new numbers. Previous Division 3, (Now 5) has a new councilor, as Bob Frolek stepped down after an appreciated 5 years of service and has been replaced by acclamation by Jaden Jamieson.
Council and administration would like to thank Robert(Joanne) Turpin for his 27 years of service to the RM as councilor for Division 4. Robert continued his family’s tradition of representing this area for 45 years of the past 65 years.
Council also wishes Jayson Smith all the best in his new position with the RM of Leask. Jayson was a 20-year employee and his great attitude and skill will be missed.
The first heavy wet snow fall of the year, this year fell onto warm ground that was not frozen and is creating issues with road plowing. Please be patient.
Take in our jewel, Table Mountain Regional Park! Have a great winter season & stay safe!
Reeve
RM of Battle River #438